Concerns raised over stray cats being sprayed with paint

Feline Welfare Organization has raised concerns about stray cats in the Male' MerryBrown Parking area being covered with blue spray paint.

In a Facebook post, the organization raised their concern, adding that the organization has been caring for and feeding the cats in the area for several years. This incident has deeply upset them, the organization said.

"...We found multiple cats covered in blue spray paint—an act of cruelty that not only injures them but also exposes them to toxic chemicals. Even their water and food bowls were not spared, making it evident that these acts were intended to harm," the organization said.

The Feline Welfare Organization strongly condemned the actions and asked the public to be vigilant and report any such acts of abuse.

Male' City Council and the government have in collaboration established a special facility for cats in Hulhumale' called Olhu Hiyaa. Although the facility is officially open, it has not yet begun relocating stray cats, as the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare has advised against moving the animals until the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are properly followed.

Last week, Male' City Council was instructed to transfer the management of the Olhu Hiyaa facility to the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare. However, the City Council has stated that it will only hand over management once it has been compensated the cost of constructing the facility.